Hobbies Linked to Lower Dementia Risk in Australia

Dementia is now the leading cause of death in Australia, affecting about 446,000 people and projected to almost double by 2065. The Lancet Commission identified 14 modifiable risk factors, and researchers highlight that regular leisure activities can boost "cognitive reserve" and help protect the brain.

A large Japanese cohort study found that people with at least one hobby in mid‑life had about a 19% lower risk of developing disabling dementia, and those with multiple hobbies saw a 23% reduction. Australian research in 2023 reported similar benefits: literacy and critical‑thinking tasks such as writing, puzzle‑solving or computer use were linked to a 9‑11% lower risk, while creative pursuits like knitting or woodworking showed a 7% reduction. No single hobby proved superior, but consistent engagement in physical, cognitive or social activities appears to lower dementia risk.